Here's Why Netflix Has Been Releasing Fewer Original K-Dramas Lately

Ever since the Hallyu Wave exploded globally in the late 2010s, Netflix has been leading the charge when it comes to producing original K-dramas for an international audience. It’s home to viral hits like Squid Game, Kingdom, and All of Us Are Dead, often propelling the shows’ cast members to instant stardom on foreign waters.

That said, it seems the streaming platform will be pulling back its scripted content this 2026.

According to Korean media, Netflix will be shifting its strategy to dole out more reality shows this year, as opposed to K-dramas. The move is attributed to the hefty cost of producing these shows that almost always employ big-name celebrities. According to The Korea Herald, the talent fee of Korean actors can now range from 300 million won to 500 million won (approximately P12 million to P20 million) per Netflix episode.

To curb this financial dilemma while still satisfying the clamor for Korean content, Netflix is reportedly latching onto the allure of reality TV. The streamer’s unscripted dramas have proven their ability to stir up massive viewership and engagement while featuring “ordinary people.” Not to mention some of these Netflix originals are able to sustain momentum year after year by releasing multiple seasons.

Culinary Class Wars, a cooking competition that has put its chefs on the map, has already been renewed for season 3 after it wrapped its second season early this year. Meanwhile, the dating show Single’s Inferno is now on its fifth installment. Released last January 20, it currently holds the third spot on Netflix Philippines’ Top 10 TV Shows List. Compared to expensive actor salaries, participants on the romantic variety show are only earning one million won per episode (P40,170).

The platform hopes that this new pivot will save them major cash while still guaranteeing big gains in the long run, hence why Hallyu fans should expect more reality TV shows on their screens soon.